Madison County Sheriff's Office Deputy Mark Ahlquist was named 2018 Officer of the Year by the Jackson Exchange Club for his quick thinking and commitment to serving the community.

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Madison County Sheriff Deputy Mark Ahlquist was named 2018 Officer of the Year by the Jackson Exchange Club for his commitment to serve
Brittney L. Jackson, USA TODAY NETWORK - Tennessee

Ahlquist responded to a call regarding a potential overdose in February. Upon arrival, the individual was unresponsive and Ahlquist recognized opioid-based medications.

The ambulance was 10 minutes away so he administered Narcan, a medication used to block the effects of opioids. Within a few seconds the individual was stabilized.

“I recognized certain symptoms to be symptoms of an overdose,” Ahlquist said. “If it wasn’t, the good thing about Narcan is, it won’t hurt you. But if it was, it will bring you out pretty quick.” Which is what happened.

Once the ambulance arrived, Ahlquist explained the situation to EMTs and they confirmed he made the right decision and possibly saved the individual’s life.

When Ahlquist realized Exchange Club member Rachel Hughes was describing him as the winner, he was nervous and surprised, he said, adding that he doesn’t usually do public speaking.

Surrounded by his family, all Ahlquist could say in the moment was “thank you, it’s an honor to serve Madison County.”

Appreciation for Americanism

Each year the Exchange Club honors either a Jackson police officer or a Madison County deputy based on nominations from the departments.

“One of our tenants for the Exchange Club is to focus on Americanism,” Hughes said. “That’s why you see the display of American Flags, that’s why we honor law enforcement and firefighter of the year.”

Ahlquist was a reserve deputy for more than two years before becoming a full-time deputy about a year and a half ago.

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Deputy Patrol Officer for the Madison County Sheriff's Office Mark Ahlquist was honored as the officer of the year by the Jackson Exchange Club. Ahlquist was surprised by his family at the event.(Photo: BRITTNEY JACKSON/The Jackson Sun)

He was happy in the job he had before, but he always thought about becoming a Sheriff's Office deputy, he said.

“I knew this is where I wanted to be and I took the step, and haven’t turned back,” Ahlquist said.